Beloved

Excerpts of Stories by or About Persons with Down Syndrome

My message to all parents of a child with support needs is: You will love this baby as much, if not more than anything you have previously experienced. I say this from the perspective of being a mom to a daughter - born early, requiring life-saving surgery, and constant early medical intervention. Zola has put me through the emotional wringer; and yet I would probably go through it all again, had I had known what joy this little one has brought to my life.

Having Down syndrome cannot be easy at times and yet the determination on my daughter's face would melt any cynic into believing in the possible. I cherish the moments when Zola has mastered new words or skills, eagerly demonstrating to any who will watch and listen. People I have met through having had Zola, share in the laughter, tears, or fury against inequalities experienced in our lives.

I would like to think I have become a whole and better person, although I will struggle always with being the best parent I can be. Zola makes the journey with as much grace as any little person can do - I admire and love her humour and courage - she is beloved forever.